Clutch release device for motorized cycles

Abstract

A clutch release device for a motorized cycle including an engine, at least one rear wheel, a power transmission mechanism for transmitting power of the engine to the rear wheel, and the power transmission mechanism comprising a friction clutch mechanism connected with the engine, a sprocket for chain-driving the rear wheel, a speed change mechanism of a gearing type having a tubular main shaft connected with the clutch mechanism and a counter shaft connected to the sprocket, the main and counter shafts being arranged to be parallel with each other, and the clutch mechanism and the sprocket being disposed on either end side of the main shaft and on the opposite end side of the counter shaft, respectively. The clutch release device comprises a push rod member arranged for advancing and retreating movement through the main shaft, the push rod member having either end portion thereof capable of disconnecting and reconnecting the clutch mechanism as the push rod member advances and retreats, respectively, a hydraulic cylinder acting on the other end portion of the rod member thereby causing same to advance and retreat, and the hydraulic cylinder being disposed more outside than the sprocket in the transverse direction of the motorized cycle. The sprocket mechanism allows for the incorporation of a sprocket of a relatively large diameter.